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Fake news: Messages alleging 'Omega', 'Salakau' gangs are beating up those who refuse to join them

The police are investigating recent text messages and videos alleging gang members are beating up those who refuse to join them.

Stomp made a query with the police after several readers alerted Stomp to messages that have been circulating on WhatsApp and Instagram of fights between the 'Omega' and 'Salakau' gangs in various parts of Singapore.

The messages advise others to stay home and stay safe as gang members are purportedly attacking the public.

The police said in a statement on their Facebook page on Saturday morning (Aug 24) that the information being spread through these texts and videos is false.

They added that they have verified none of the alleged incidents had occurred.

Here is the statement in full:

"The Police are aware of text messages and videos that have been circulating purportedly about fights between various gangs in different parts of Singapore and advising the public to stay away to remain safe.

"Some of the text messages even alleged that gang members would beat up those who refuse to join their gang.

"The Police would like to assure members of the public that the information being spread through these text messages and videos is false.

"The Police have verified that none of the alleged incidents had occurred.

"Members of the public are advised not to spread these untruths which cause unnecessary public alarm.

"The Police will not hesitate to take action against any person responsible for the deliberate generation and spread of such untruths which can cause unnecessary public alarm.

"Anyone with information on the person(s) who had generated and spread this false information should call the Police Hotline at 1800-255-0000 or submit information online via www.police.gov.sg/iwitness.

"All information will be kept strictly confidential.

"Under Section 4(2) of the Protection from Harassment Act, anyone found guilty of causing harassment, alarm or distress shall be liable to a fine not exceeding $5,000.

"Under Section 147 of the Penal Code, Chapter 224, anyone convicted for the offence of rioting shall be punished with imprisonment for a term which may extend to seven years, and shall also be liable to caning.